Writing on Rugby Heaven, Greg Growden calls on Australia No.8 Wycliff Palu to deliver a dominant display in Saturday’s Bledisloe Cup clash against the All Blacks in Tokyo.
"The mini typhoon which was supposed to hit Tokyo yesterday didn't occur, with the Wallabies instead training in perfect weather. However, these emotionally battered tourists are still hoping that a cyclonic force - otherwise known as Hurricane Palu, which has been in the doldrums far too long - will hit on Saturday during the year's final Bledisloe Cup fixture.
"While George Smith's demotion to the bench and Matt Giteau's retention of the five-eighth spot will have the Australian rugby world all atwitter today, a more pressing issue that could determine whether the Wallabies are competitive in this Tokyo Test centres on No.8 Wycliff Palu.
"If the Wallabies are to upset the All Blacks, it is time for Palu to step up. Australia have been waiting an eternity for someone to cement themselves in the Wallabies No.8 position. Until that occurs, and Australia can again boast a player of the calibre of a Mark Loane or a Toutai Kefu as the centrepiece of their forward assault, their performances will continue to fluctuate."
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